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McSweeney’s WHL Community Collective: Portland Winterhawks

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 21:57:03 +0000

The Western Hockey League strives to promote and foster a welcoming environment in communities close to our 23 clubs in Western Canada and the Pacific Northwest. Every team has the creative freedom to allow their players and staff to work with the organizations and groups that they are most passionate about. The end goal is to create and maintain long-lasting relationships and ongoing partnerships within their community. Through the McSweeney’s WHL Community Collective, we aim to highlight these outstanding initiatives done by each club throughout the season.

The Portland Winterhawks are covering territory all around the Rose City to ensure everyone gets a chance to experience Hawkey. As part of a longstanding partnership with local Boys and Girls Clubs, the team visited five chapters in the area in 2025-26 to meet kids where they're at and introduce some new fans to the sport. The monthly visits have seen the team spend afternoons with roughly 400 young people. "Some of the kids know us from previous seasons, some of the kids are new," Winterhawks Manager, Community Relations and Communications Alyssa Mehalovich said. "Sometimes it's arts and crafts, sometimes it's a history lesson. Sometimes they're going to the game room and playing pool with the kids, you know, and then the last 30 minutes, the kids transition to what our boys do. That's where we teach them street hockey, how to play. Sometimes it's outside on the street, sometimes it's in a gym- it kind of just depends on which club we're going to, but it gives our boys the opportunity to be incorporated into the kids' lives, which is really important, and it kind of breaks the ice a little bit too. By the time they get to hockey, everyone's best friends, and they all just want to just play and have fun." Throughout the season, Winterhawks players also put on their coaching hats for the team's learn-to-play program, which sees the team provide free gear and the city provide free ice time for six learning sessions. https://twitter.com/pdxwinterhawks/status/2020934363865829480 "A lot of the beginning is just kind of like learning how to stay up, and if you fall, learning how to get up," Mehalovich added. "Towards the end of the last couple of sessions, you'll see some players put the nets out there (and) we'll try to get a little scrimmage going. It's a really, really great partnership because the kids get to learn a sport and have access to a sport that they might not otherwise be able to access at all, and then our boys, they get to kind of step outside of the hockey realm for a second and just get to play and have fun." The Winterhawks and Boys and Girls Clubs have spent the last five seasons building the partnership and look forward to growing together in the future.

NHL Prospect Watch: Toronto Maple Leafs

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 20:16:09 +0000

In the lead-up to the 2026-27 hockey season, we’re diving into the WHL prospect pool for every NHL team. To be included in this list, a player must be recently drafted, signed to an NHL contract, or meet the NHL’s criteria for rookie status.

2025 WHL Player of the Year Gavin McKenna is the latest player with WHL experience to be selected first overall in the NHL Draft- and he's got plenty of dub talent around him in the Buds' prospect pool.

Noah Chadwick

The 2023-24 CHL and WHL Scholastic Player of the Year enjoyed a stellar first season of pro hockey, helping the Toronto Marlies claim the Calder Cup as AHL Champions. The 21-year-old defenceman appeared in 68 regular season contests, recording 23 points (5G-18A) before adding another five points (1G-4A) in 16 post-season outings with the Marlies. The 6-foot-4, 207-pound product of Saskatoon, Sask., was selected by the Maple Leafs in the sixth round (185th overall) of the 2023 NHL Draft. Chadwick's final season in the WHL saw him captain the Lethbridge Hurricanes and earn a place on the WHL's Eastern Conference First All-Star Team thanks to an impressive 53-point campaign (13G-40A). Originally selected by the Hurricanes in the second round (38th overall) of the 2020 WHL Prospects Draft, Chadwick recorded 132 points (32G-100A) in 212 career WHL regular season games.

Miroslav Holinka

A member of the WHL's Eastern Conference Second All-Star Team in 2025-26, Holinka exploded for 80 points (37G-43A) in 59 games with the Edmonton Oil Kings this past season. The 6-foot-2, 198-pound product of Kromeriz, Czechia, represented his home country at the 2025 IIHF World Junior Championship, registering four points (1G-3A) in seven games en route to a bronze medal. Selected by the Maple Leafs in the fifth round (151st overall) of the 2024 NHL Draft, Holinka made his pro debut with the Marlies on April 12, 2026, tallying one assist in a 4-1 win at Syracuse. Originally selected by the Oil Kings in the first round (14th overall) of the 2024 CHL Import Draft, Holinka collected 125 points (56G-69A) in 106 career WHL regular season games.

Ethan MacKenzie

Another member of the WHL's Eastern Conference Second All-Star Team in 2025-26, MacKenzie was a breakout star for the Edmonton Oil Kings this past season. The 6-foot-1, 187-pound product of Peachland, B.C., emerged with a near point-per-game effort in 2025-26, securing 58 points (22G-36A) in 59 games for the Oil Kings. The 2006-born defender impressed early in the season and was named to the roster for Canada's entry at the 2026 IIHF World Junior Championship, where he posted five points (1G-4A) in seven games to help his country earn a bronze medal. MacKenzie's career best campaign resulted in the Toronto Maple Leafs calling his name in the third round (69th overall) of the 2026 NHL Draft – his third year of eligibility. Originally selected by the Oil Kings in the fourth round (82nd overall) of the 2021 WHL Prospects Draft, MacKenzie registered 108 points (29G-79A) in 189 career WHL regular season games.

Nathan Mayes

The 20-year-old product of Salmon Arm, B.C., served as an alternate captain for the Spokane Chiefs, tallying 16 points (2G-14A) and a plus-1 rating over 63 games on the blue line. The 6-foot-4, 201-pound rearguard enjoyed a career season in 2024-25 with 27 points (6G-21) in 56 regular season contests. That spring, he helped the Chiefs advance to the 2025 WHL Championship Series, notching 12 points (2G-10A) in 20 post-season games. It was an impressive performance for Mayes, who built upon what the Maple Leafs saw in him when they selected him in the seventh round (225th overall) of the 2024 NHL Draft. Originally selected by the Chiefs in the third round (51st overall) of the 2021 WHL Prospects Draft, Mayes has collected 60 points (9G-51A) and a minus-3 rating in 193 career WHL regular season games.

Gavin McKenna

The latest star to grace Leafland, former WHL Champion Gavin McKenna was selected first overall in the 2026 NHL Draft. Hailing from Whitehorse, Yukon, the 5-foot-11, 170-pound winger filled a WHL trophy case during his time with the Medicine Hat Tigers, being named WHL and CHL Rookie of the Year (2023-24) and WHL and CHL Player of the Year (2024-25), along with an Ed Chynoweth Cup as WHL Champion in 2025. Selected by the Tigers with the first overall pick in the 2022 WHL Prospects Draft, McKenna made his WHL debut at the age of 14 and was an immediate impact player. He recorded 18 points (4G-14A) in 16 games of his 15-year-old season, before putting the league on notice as a 16-year-old rookie in 2023-24, posting 97 points (34G-63A) in 61 games. The 2024-25 season saw McKenna stack up 129 points (41G-88A) during 56 regular season games, before he added another 38 points (9G-29A) in 16 post-season contests to fuel the Tigers' run to the WHL Championship.

Zach Olsen

The 18-year-old product of Calgary, Alta., was selected by the Maple Leafs in the third round (73rd overall) of the 2026 NHL Draft following career campaign that saw him register 34 points (18G-16A) in 57 games with the Saskatoon Blades. The 6-foot-1, 203-pound forward quickly became a key piece for the Blades after being selected in the second round (29th overall) of the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft. Olsen registered 57 points (29G-28A) in 118 career WHL regular season games.

Henrik Rybinski

A 25-year-old product of Vancouver, B.C., Henrik Rybinsk's winding journey through hockey now brings him back to Canada for the first time since he was a member of the Medicine Hat Tigers in 2018-19. The 6-foot-2, 187-pound forward has enjoyed a successful pro hockey career thus far, contributing to two Calder Cup championships as a member of the AHL's Hershey Bears (2023, 2024). Selected by the Florida Panthers in the fifth round (136th overall) of the 2019 NHL Draft, Rybinski never ended up signing with the Panthers. Instead, he signed a three-year, entry-level contract with the Washington Capitals in March 2022 following a career best WHL season with the Seattle Thunderbirds. In 2021-22, Rybinski served as an alternate captain for the Thunderbirds and posted 65 points (21G-44A) in 47 regular season games. He added another 18 points (43G-14A) in 19 post-season games, helping the Thunderbirds advance to the WHL Championship Series before ultimately falling to the Edmonton Oil Kings. After four seasons in the Caps organization, Rybinski signed a two-year NHL contract with the Maple Leafs this past summer and will look for an opportunity to make his NHL debut. Originally selected by the Medicine Hat Tigers in the second round (34th overall) of the 2016 WHL Draft, Rybinski collected 176 points (50G-126A) in 233 career WHL regular season games.

Borya Valis

The 22-year-old native of Denver, Colo., made his pro hockey debut in 2025-26, appearing 60 games with the Marlies and contributing 25 points (15G-10A) as Toronto's AHL squad laid claim to a Calder Cup title. Valis saw action in 10 post-season games, notching three assists. The 6-foot-2, 205-pound power forward went unselected in the NHL Draft, but ultimately earned himself an entry-level contract with the Maple Leafs as a free agent following an impressive 2024-25 season with the Prince George Cougars. That year, everything clicked for Valis, who accomplished career bests in goals (34), assists (46), and points (80) across 66 games. Valis was also unselected in the WHL Draft, instead signing a WHL Scholarship and Development Agreement with the Regina Pats on January 11, 2021. Over 245 career WHL regular season games split between the Pats and Cougars, Valis logged 223 points (91G-132A).

Cooper Williams

The 18-year-old forward from Calgary, Alta., was one of four WHL players selected by the Maple Leafs in 2026 NHL Draft, going in the fifth round (158th overall). The 6-foot-1, 163-pound forward has registered back-to-back 57-point campaigns with the Saskatoon Blades, including a career-high 23 goals in 2025-26. Williams represented Canada at the 2025 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, tallying one goal in three games en route to a bronze medal. Originally selected by the Blades in the second round (41st overall) of the 2023 WHL Prospects Draft, Williams has collected 114 points (44G-70A) in 134 career WHL regular season outings.

2026 WHL Graduates: Penticton Vees

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 17:31:09 +0000

Over the month of August, the Western Hockey League will be celebrating the WHL Graduates from the 2025-26 season in a 23-part, team-by-team series.

Today, we continue with the graduating quartet from the Penticton Vees.

Brady Birnie (F)

Hometown: Regina, Sask.
WHL Career Stats: 334 GP – 94 G-145 A – 239 points
WHL Draft: 2020 – First Round, 21st Overall (Swift Current Broncos)

For Brady Birnie, a six-season WHL career came full circle in Penticton.

Originally selected 21st overall by the Swift Current Broncos in the 2020 WHL Prospects Draft, the Regina, Sask., product made his WHL debut on March 22, 2021, against the Prince Albert Raiders. Birnie spent parts of five seasons with Swift Current, steadily growing into one of the Broncos’ most reliable offensive contributors.

The high-scoring forward passed the 35-point plateau in three out of his four full seasons in Speedy Creek, with his best campaign with the Broncos being 65 points (26 G-29 A) during the 2024-25 WHL Season. In total, Birnie recorded 169 points in 267 regular season appearances with the Broncos before making his way to Penticton as part of the Vees’ expansion draft process.

And, what a way to begin a new chapter.

Birnie was named an assistant captain for Penticton’s inaugural WHL season and responded with a career-best 70 points (22 G-48 A) in 67 regular season games. Birnie also became the first player in Vees' franchise history to score a WHL Playoffs goal when he opened the scoring against the Seattle Thunderbirds in Game 1 of the 2026 WHL Playoffs.

Birnie finished the Vees’ first postseason with 11 points (9 G-2 A) in 15 appearances, helping the expansion club advance all the way to the Western Conference Championship Series in just their first post-season campaign.

In total, Birnie closes out his WHL career with 239 points (94 G-145 A) across 334 regular season games with the Broncos and Vees.

Matteo Danis (F)

Hometown: Calgary, Alta.
WHL Career Stats: 269 GP – 66 G-62 A – 128 points
WHL Draft: Listed (Calgary Hitmen)

After over 250 games of WHL experience Matteo Danis is departing from the junior hockey scene as a member of the Vees' first-ever graduating class.

However, Danis' introduction to Western League came well before the Vees laid their own tracks in the WHL. Originally going undrafted in the 2020 WHL Prospects Draft, Danis made his WHL debut during the 2021-22 season after being listed and signed to a WHL Scholarship and Development Agreement with the Calgary Hitmen. After making just six appearances during the 2021-22 WHL campaign, Danis returned with a desire to crack the permanent roster.

And, did he ever.

In the 2022-23 WHL Season, Danis suited up with the Hitmen on 65 occasions, recording 27 points (12 G-15 A).

After parts of three seasons with the Hitmen, Danis was acquired by the Prince George Cougars on October 18, 2023. The move provided the forward with an opportunity to take on a larger offensive role in Northern British Columbia.

Danis responded with back-to-back productive seasons in Prince George, including a 26-point campaign in 68 games during the 2024-25 WHL Season.

Then, another new opportunity came in Penticton.

Selected by the Vees during the 2025 WHL Expansion Draft, Danis joined the inaugural WHL roster and quickly established himself as one of Penticton’s top offensive threats.

During the 2025-26 WHL Season, Danis erupted for a career-high 59 points (30 G-29 A) in 65 games. His 30 goals were also a personal best and ranked third on the Vees roster, while his 59 points placed him fourth in Club scoring.

During the 2026 WHL Playoffs, he collected 10 points in 15 appearances as Penticton advanced to their first-ever Western Conference Championship Series.

After nearly five seasons and 269 regular season games in the Western League, Danis closes out his junior career with 128 points (66 G-62 A).

Ryden Evers (F)

Hometown: Burnaby, B.C.
WHL Career Stats: 67 GP – 35 G-39 A – 74 points
WHL Draft: Listed (Penticton Vees)

Ryden Evers’ lone WHL season was enough to turn the undrafted forward into an NHL-contracted player.

The Burnaby, B.C., product spent the majority of his junior career in the BCHL, splitting time between the Surrey Eagles and Penticton Vees, before making the leap to the Western League.

When Penticton made the decision to expand into the WHL, Evers went with them.

The forward signed a WHL Scholarship and Development Agreement with Penticton ahead of the Club’s inaugural WHL campaign and quickly established himself as one of the expansion team’s biggest offensive weapons. Evers posted 74 points (35 G-39 A) in 67 regular season appearances, finishing second on the Vees in scoring and tied for the Club lead in goals.

His production was only part of what made the season special.

Evers was named a finalist for the 2025-26 Brad Hornung Memorial Trophy as the WHL’s Most Sportsmanlike Player, while also signing a three-year, entry-level contract with the Seattle Kraken as an undrafted free agent on March 1, 2026.

And, with the Vees chasing an unforgettable first season, Evers continued to produce.

He added 13 points (7 G-6 A) in 15 appearances during the 2026 WHL Playoffs as Penticton advanced to the Western Conference Championship Series. His seven postseason goals tied him for the most on the team.

Nolan Stevenson (D)

Hometown: Shaunavon, Sask.
WHL Career Stats: 67 GP – 11 G-35 A – 46 points
WHL Draft: Listed (Penticton Vees)

For Nolan Stevenson, his final season of junior hockey also marked the beginning of a new era in Penticton.

The Shaunavon, Sask., product spent the first several seasons of his junior career with the Penticton Vees in the BCHL, before following the Club into the Western Hockey League.

On September 17, 2025, Stevenson was named the first captain in Vees' franchise history.

The veteran blueliner responded with the best offensive season of his junior career.

Stevenson recorded 46 points (11 G-35 A) in 67 regular season appearances, leading all Penticton defencemen in scoring.

Then came the first-ever WHL Playoffs for the expansion Club.

Stevenson suited up in all 15 postseason games as Penticton advanced past Seattle and Prince George before reaching the Western Conference Championship Series. He added nine points (4 G-5 A) during the historic run.

He closes out his WHL career having recorded 46 points (11 G-35 A) in 67 regular season games.

2026 WHL Graduates: Moose Jaw Warriors

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 19:44:47 +0000

Over the month of August, the Western Hockey League will be celebrating the WHL Graduates from the 2025-26 season in a 23-part, team-by-team series.

Today, we continue with the graduating trio from the Moose Jaw Warriors.

Pavel McKenzie (F)

Hometown: Cumberland House, Sask.
WHL Career Stats: 196 GP – 49 G-100 A – 149 points
WHL Draft: Listed (Moose Jaw Warriors)

Going undrafted in the WHL Prospects Draft did not stop Pavel McKenzie from making his mark in the Western Hockey League.

The Cumberland House, Sask., product was listed by the Moose Jaw Warriors in 2023 and made his WHL debut on September 22, 2023, against the Prince Albert Raiders. McKenzie wasted little time finding his footing, recording his first career point one week later with a two-assist performance against the Brandon Wheat Kings on September 29, 2023.

McKenzie went on to enjoy an impressive rookie campaign, finding himself on a line with eventual NHL prospects Brayden Yager and Jagger Firkus for much of the 2023-24 season. The forward finished with 36 points (15 G-21 A) in 63 games and was recognized as one of the Warriors’ top rookies.

But the 2023-24 season was about more than individual success.

McKenzie added five points (2 G-3 A) in 20 games during the 2024 WHL Playoffs as Moose Jaw captured their first Ed Chynoweth Cup in franchise history.

His offensive game continued to climb over the next two seasons. McKenzie followed his rookie campaign with 47 points (17 G-30 A) in 68 appearances during the 2024-25 WHL Season before producing a career-best 66 points (17 G-49 A) across 65 games in his final campaign. His 49 assists led the Warriors, while his 66 points ranked second on the Club.

He closes out his time in the Western League with 149 points (49 G-100 A) in 196 regular season games, along with five points in 20 career playoff appearances.

Ethan Semeniuk (F)

Hometown: Fort St. John, B.C.
WHL Career Stats: 276 GP – 58 G-72 A – 130 points
WHL Draft: 2020 – Third Round, 56th Overall (Vancouver Giants)

Ethan Semeniuk’s Western Hockey League career featured a little bit of everything.

Originally selected 56th overall by the Vancouver Giants in the 2020 WHL Prospects Draft, the Fort St. John, B.C., product made his first WHL appearance on October 2, 2021, against the Victoria Royals. Semeniuk recorded his first career point one week later, scoring against the Prince George Cougars.

After two seasons in Vancouver, Semeniuk made 110 appearances and collected 35 points (20 G-15 A). On July 28, 2023, Semeniuk was acquired by the Warriors as the East Division club was building up for an deep run in the 2024 WHL Playoffs.

Semeniuk made an immediate impact with his new Club, recording 24 points (8 G-16 A) in 50 games during the 2023-24 regular season before playing a key role in Moose Jaw’s run to the Ed Chynoweth Cup. He added seven points in 20 playoff appearances as the Warriors captured their first WHL Championship.

His offensive production continued to rise from there.

Semeniuk recorded 28 points during the 2024-25 campaign before putting together a career season in his final year. In 63 appearances during the 2025-26 WHL Season, the overage forward posted 43 points (16 G-27 A), setting personal bests in goals, assists and points.

His work away from the scoresheet was also recognized at the League level. Semeniuk was named a finalist for the 2025-26 Doug Wickenheiser Memorial Trophy, presented annually to the WHL’s Humanitarian of the Year.

After five seasons in the Western League, Semeniuk closes out his junior career with 130 points (58 G-72 A) in 276 regular season games and 10 points in 36 career playoff appearances.

Aiden Ziprick (D)

Hometown: Russell, Man.
WHL Career Stats: 220 GP – 33 G-81 A – 114 points
WHL Draft: 2020 – Seventh Round, 148th Overall (Lethbridge Hurricanes)

Originally selected in the seventh round (148th overall) by the Lethbridge Hurricanes in the 2020 WHL Prospects Draft, Aiden Ziprick made his first WHL appearance on December 2, 2022, against the Tri-City Americans. While short, Ziprick's time spent in the Bridge City was sweet, collecting three points in 32 appearances with the Hurricanes.

Ziprick then continued his junior hockey career the Moose Jaw Warriors via trade just two games into the 2023-24 season.

The move proved to be a turning point.

Ziprick instantly meshed with a Moose Jaw team loaded with veteran talent, helping the Saskatchewan-based Club capture the 2024 WHL Championship.

Ziprick suited up in all 20 postseason games during the Warriors' championship run before adding another memorable moment at the 2024 Memorial Cup in Saginaw.

The blueliner scored a shorthanded game-winning goal against the QMJHL's Drummondville Voltigeurs for Moose Jaw’s first victory at the tournament.

As more of Moose Jaw’s championship core moved on, Ziprick’s role continued to grow within the roster.

The defenceman exploded for 48 points (12 G-36 A) in 68 games during the 2024-25 WHL Season, finishing second among Warriors skaters.

And, his final campaign brought another step forward.

Ziprick appeared in all 68 regular season games during the 2025-26 season, setting career highs with 20 goals and 56 points (20 G-36 A).

Although the Warriors narrowly missed the 2026 WHL Playoffs, Ziprick exits the Western League having completed a memorable final chapter in Moose Jaw.

In total, the veteran defenceman closes out his WHL career with 114 points (33 G-81 A) in 220 regular season games.

NHL Prospect Watch: Tampa Bay Lightning

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 18:16:27 +0000

Aiden Foster Stalwart Prince George Cougars pivot Aiden Foster enjoyed his most productive season yet with the Cats, posting 35 points (14G-21A) in 65 contests. His 113 penalty minutes led the team, while ranking third in faceoff wins with 248 (48.2%). The 6-foot-2, 183-pound centre added another six points (2G-4A) in 10 playoff games. Foster, 19, was selected with the 127th overall pick in the fourth round of the 2025 NHL Draft. Over three seasons in Prince George, the Lloydminster, Alta. product has garnered 62 points (28G-34A) and 373 PIMs in 199 games. Gabriel Szturc Former Kelowna Rockets captain Gabriel Szturc nearly matched his rookie-season numbers in his second pro season with the AHL's Syracuse Crunch. The 5-foot-11, 194-pound forward logged 19 points (9G-10A) in 60 outings with the Crunch. Szturc, who signed with Tampa Bay as an undrafted free agent in 2024, will look to take another step forward as he enters the final year of his three-year, entry-level deal. Over three seasons with Kelowna, Szturc netted 203 points (73G-130A) in 185 games. Harrison Meneghin 2025 WHL Playoff MVP Harrison Meneghin donned all three jerseys in the Tampa Bay pipeline in his first season of professional hockey. The 21-year-old spent the bulk of the campaign with the ECHL's Orlando Solar Bears, where he went 4-9-0 with a 3.26 goals-against average and an .889 save percentage before getting called up for one AHL game and, finally, joining the Lightning as a third-string goaltender for the 2026 NHL Playoffs. Meneghin, who stands 6-foot-4, 174 pounds, will look to gain traction with the Crunch in his sophomore campaign. Hailing from South Surrey, B.C., spent parts of four seasons in the WHL with the Lethbridge Hurricanes and Medicine Hat Tigers, going 69-42-8-3 with a 2.68 GAA, a .910 save percentage and seven shutouts. He went 14-1-0-0 with a 2.35 GAA, a .906 save percentage and three clean sheets to help the Tabbies hoist the Ed Chynoweth Cup in 2025 and reach the Memorial Cup Final, signing his ELC with the Lightning just days later. He was drafted with the 206th overall pick in the seventh round of the 2024 NHL Draft.

Virk, McKamey swap places as Royals & Ams strike blockbuster deal

Mon, 24 Aug 2026 17:07:52 +0000

With WHL training camps on the horizon, the Victoria Royals and Tri-City Americans came together on a blockbuster trade Monday morning.

The Royals bolstered their scoring with the acquisition of veteran forward Savin Virk, a second-round pick in the 2027 CHL Import Draft, and a sixth-round pick in the 2030 WHL Prospects Draft, sending promising 2009-born forward Eli McKamey, a first-round pick in the 2027 CHL Import Draft, and a third-round pick in the 2030 WHL Prospects Draft to Tri-City.

The 5-foot-11, 175-pound Virk, who hails from Surrey, B.C., enjoyed a career campaign in Kennewick last season, recording 65 points, including 27 goals, in 66 games. Originally selected by the Ams in the third round (46th overall) of the 2022 WHL Prospects Draft, Virk has appeared in 116 career WHL regular season contests, collecting 111 points (49G-62A) along the way.

“Savin has proven to be a top player in this league, and we expect him to be a big part of our team,” said Jake Heisinger, General Manager of the Royals. “Adding a player of his calibre to our group is an important move for us.”

In McKamey, the Americans receive a highly touted forward with promise. Originally selected by the Royals in the second round (35th overall) of the 2024 WHL Prospects Draft, the 5-foot-10, 176-pound McKamey made his debut during the 2025-26 season, appearing in 48 games and recording 17 points (6G-11A).

“The opportunity to add a player like McKamey to our program was something we couldn’t pass up,” said Bob Tory, General Manager of the Americans. “Eli is among the top players in his age group in Western Canada and gives us another key player in the 2009 class. Along with recovering a 2027 first-round import draft pick, we believe this trade will have a positive impact on our team both this season and moving forward.

“Savin was an important player for us over the past two seasons, and we wish him and his family the best of luck in Victoria.”

Though he ultimately went unselected in the 2025 NHL Draft, Virk was on the final rankings from NHL Central Scouting, listed 121st among North American skaters. The now 19-year-old forward was named WHL Rookie of the Month for February 2025 after tallying 17 points (9G-8A) in 11 games with Tri-City.

The 17-year-old McKamey is eligible for the 2027 NHL Draft. He represented Canada White at the 2025 U17 Hockey Challenge, scoring two points (1G-1A) in five games, helping his squad to a silver medal finish.

“Eli is a very good young player that has a bright career in front of him,” Heisinger said. “In making this move, Eli will have the opportunity to play an offensive role in his draft year.”

McKamey and the Ams will hit the ice for training camp beginning Thursday, August 27, at Toyota Arena in Kennewick.

McSweeney’s WHL Community Collective: Everett Silvertips

Sun, 23 Aug 2026 20:58:10 +0000

You can look at mental health as a brick-by-brick journey. Different experiences fit in like different pieces. Sometimes it might crumble. For Everett Silvertips netminder Raiden LeGall, it's all about building a strong 'LeWall'. The 19-year-old has used his puck-stopping skills and platform to help enhance mental health supports in Snohomish County and his home province of Manitoba. LeGall, along with his hometown goalie coach Tim Morison, created shirts and hoodies in partnership with Bricks and Minifigs South Everett to raise money for Camp Erin, which is part of an international network of grief camps for kids and teens who've experienced the death of an important person in their lives, and Eden Health Care Services, which focuses on mental health and community wellness in Manitoba. “One of the most difficult causes of mental health struggles is losing a loved one,” LeGall said. “It can deeply impact your emotions and your day-to-day life.

“Mental health is extremely important to me because it affects my everyday life, my well-being, and the people around me, like my family and friends. When mental health challenges come up, many people hide what they’re going through and you never truly know what someone might be dealing with. That’s why I believe it’s so important to talk about it and reach out for help, whether it’s to friends, family, or other support resources. Keeping everything inside only makes things harder.”

The cause hits painfully close to home for both men. Morison and his wife, Nikki, had a stillborn son in 2022. Morison credited LeGall for being a supportive presence during the heart-wrenching, turbulent times that followed. The couple now have a young daughter whose middle name is Rae- after Raiden. On February 27, the Morisons- who have often been included in family weekend activities with the LeGalls- made the trip to Everett to join in on a ceremonial puck drop, celebrating more than $14,000 raised through the 'Brick in LeWall' campaign. In the spring, LeGall was recognized as a finalist for WHL Humanitarian of the Year for his efforts, in addition to a myriad of community visits and volunteer work. But in this case, success isn't measured in wins, losses, or accolades. It's the knowledge that in the ebbs and flows of mental health, help is there- and there are always good days on the horizon.

WHL Training Camps set to open ahead of 2026-27 season

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 20:16:32 +0000

The regular season countdown is on! Players and prospects are getting ready to descend on their respective club cities for WHL Training Camps. On-ice sessions get rolling Thursday, August 27, with the 2026-27 WHL preseason launching Sunday, August 30. Schedules and rosters will be updated on WHL.ca as they’re announced.

Brandon Wheat Kings SCHEDULE – Registration Thursday, August 27; Main camp begins Thursday, August 27 ROSTER Calgary Hitmen SCHEDULE – Registration Wednesday, August 26; Main camp begins Thursday, August 27 ROSTER Edmonton Oil Kings SCHEDULE – Registration Thursday, August 27; Main camp begins Thursday, August 27 ROSTER Everett Silvertips SCHEDULE – Registration Wednesday, August 26; Main camp begins Thursday, August 27 ROSTER Kamloops Blazers SCHEDULE – Registration Thursday, August 27; Main camp begins Friday, August 28 ROSTER – 82 players set to attend Kelowna Rockets SCHEDULE – Registration Wednesday, August 26; Main camp begins Thursday, August 27 ROSTER – 60 players set to attend Lethbridge Hurricanes SCHEDULE – Registration Wednesday, August 26; Rookie camp begins Thursday, August 27; Main camp begins Saturday, August 29 ROSTER Medicine Hat Tigers SCHEDULE – Registration Wednesday, August 26; Main camp begins Thursday, August 27 ROSTER – 79 players set to attend Moose Jaw Warriors SCHEDULE – Registration Wednesday, August 26; Rookie camp and main camp begins Thursday, August 27 ROSTER Penticton Vees SCHEDULE – Registration Wednesday, August 26; Main camp begins Thursday, August 27 ROSTER – 75 players set to attend Portland Winterhawks SCHEDULE – Registration Wednesday, August 26; Main camp begins Thursday, August 27 ROSTER – 81 players set to attend Prince Albert Raiders SCHEDULE – Registration Friday, August 28; Rookie camp and main camp begins Friday, August 28 ROSTER Prince George Cougars SCHEDULE – Registration Wednesday, August 26; Main camp begins Thursday, August 27 ROSTER Red Deer Rebels SCHEDULE – Registration Wednesday, August 26; Main camp begins Thursday, August 27 ROSTER Regina Pats SCHEDULE – Registration Wednesday, August 26; Main camp begins Thursday, August 27 ROSTER – 68 players set to attend Saskatoon Blades SCHEDULE – Registration Friday, August 28; Main camp begins Friday, August 28 ROSTER Seattle Thunderbirds SCHEDULE – Registration Wednesday, August 26; Main camp begins Thursday, August 27 ROSTER – 72 players set to attend Spokane Chiefs SCHEDULE – Registration Wednesday, August 26; Main camp begins Thursday, August 27 ROSTER Swift Current Broncos SCHEDULE – Registration Wednesday, August 26; Main camp begins Thursday, August 27 ROSTER – 106 players set to attend Tri-City Americans SCHEDULE – Registration Wednesday, August 26; Rookie camp begins Thursday, August 27; Main camp begins Tuesday, September 1 ROSTER Vancouver Giants SCHEDULE – Registration Wednesday, August 26; Rookie camp begins Thursday, August 27; Main camp begins Friday, August 28 ROSTER Victoria Royals SCHEDULE – Registration Friday, August 28; Main camp begins Friday, August 28 ROSTER – 67 players set to attend Wenatchee Wild SCHEDULE – Registration Thursday, August 27; Main camp begins Friday, August 28 ROSTER – 72 players set to attend

2026 WHL Graduates: Medicine Hat Tigers

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 18:56:07 +0000

Over the month of August, the Western Hockey League will be celebrating the WHL Graduates from the 2025-26 season in a 23-part, team-by-team series.

Today, we continue with the graduating trio from the Medicine Hat Tigers.

Andrew Basha (F)

Hometown: Calgary, Alta.
WHL Career Stats: 233 GP – 82 G-152 A – 234 points
WHL Draft: 2020 – Fifth Round, 105th Overall (Medicine Hat Tigers)
NHL Draft: 2024 – Second Round, 41st Overall (Calgary Flames)

Watch out world! Andrew Basha is heating up!

After a five season campaign with the Medicine Hat Tigers, Calgary Flames prospect Andrew Basha is set to graduate before heading to the big leagues.

Originally selected 105th overall by the Medicine Hat Tigers in the 2020 WHL Prospects Draft, Basha quickly proved to be a monumental piece for the Tabbies, cracking the Club's full-time roster during the 2021-22 season.

While a consistent contributor right out of the gates, Basha's game took a massive step forward during the 2023-24 WHL Season, when the forward erupted for a career-high 85 points (30 G-55 A) in 63 regular season appearances. The performance earned him a spot on the WHL Central Division Second All-Star Team and placed him third in team scoring during the regular season.

And, it wasn't just his Western League opponents who were well aware of Basha's increased production. His breakout campaign also caught the eyes of NHL management.

It would be Basha's hometown Calgary Flames that came calling that summer, selecting Basha 41st overall in the second round of the 2024 NHL Draft. The hometown Club then signed him to a three-year entry-level contract on September 29, 2024.

Unfortunately, the 2024-25 season was not as kind to the budding prospect, as Basha missed significant time due to an ankle injury. However, the setback didn't stop the forward from making an impression during the 2025 WHL Playoffs, as Basha returned to the Tigers lineup for the 2025 WHL Championship Series. With five points (2 G-3 A) in five games, Basha helped the Tigers capture the Club's sixth Ed Chynoweth Cup in franchise history. He also added an assist in four games at the 2025 Memorial Cup as the Tigers advanced to the tournament final before falling to the OHL's London Knights.

Basha began the 2025-26 campaign with the Flames' American Hockey League affiliate, the Calgary Wranglers, before being reassigned to Medicine Hat on January 2, 2026. He went on to run rampant offensively, collecting 50 points (18 G-32 A) in 32 regular season games.

He carried that production into the 2026 WHL Playoffs, leading the Tigers with 21 points (3 G-18 A) in 15 appearances as Medicine Hat advanced to the Eastern Conference Championship Series for the second-consecutive postseason.

Basha closes out his WHL career with 234 points (82 G-152 A) in 233 regular season games with the Tigers.

Ethan Neutens (F)

Hometown: Cochrane, Alta.
WHL Career Stats: 235 GP – 27 G-32 A – 59 points
WHL Draft: 2020 – Ninth Round, 180th Overall (Kelowna Rockets)

Ethan Neutens may have started his WHL career in the Okanagan, but it was in Medicine Hat where he found a home.

Originally selected 180th overall by the Kelowna Rockets in the ninth round of the 2020 WHL Prospects Draft, the Cochrane, Alta., product made his WHL debut on October 5, 2022, against the Victoria Royals.

Neutens spent parts of three seasons with the Rockets, collecting 25 points (11 G-14 A) in 135 regular season appearances.

On November 14, 2024, Neutens headed east to join Medicine Hat following a trade with the Rockets. He made his Medicine Hat debut the following night, quickly embracing his new home with the Tabbies.

Neutens skated in 47 regular season appearances in his first season with Medicine Hat. But, it was what happened in the 2025 WHL Playoffs that will forever stick with the forward.

In 18 postseason appearances, Neutens collected five points (2 G-3 A), but, more importantly, he was part of the Tigers' run to their sixth Ed Chynoweth Cup.

Neutens then followed his championship season with a career year offensively.

During the 2025-26 WHL Season, the hard-working winger posted a career-high in goals (12), assists (12), and points (24) in 53 regular season games. Neutens' energy and physical style of play also helped earn him the moniker “Everybody's Favourite Tiger” around Medicine Hat.

In total, Neutens closes out his WHL career with 59 points (27 G-32 A) in 235 regular season games split between Kelowna and Medicine Hat.

Josh Van Mulligen (D)

Hometown: Medicine Hat, Alta.
WHL Career Stats: 250 GP – 14 G-72 A – 86 points
WHL Draft: 2020 – Second Round, 39th Overall (Medicine Hat Tigers)

For Josh Van Mulligen, there may not have been a more fitting way to close out his WHL career.

Born and raised in Medicine Hat, the defenceman grew up watching the Tigers from the stands and even spent time around the Club as a stick boy.

So, there was no spot more fitting than the Gas City for Van Mulligen, who heard his name called by Medicine Hat in the second round of the 2020 WHL Prospects Draft. Van Mulligen would go on to spend his entire five-season junior career in the orange and black, steadily developing into a dependable two-way blueliner for his hometown club.

While consistent in all five seasons with the Tigers, the 2024-25 campaign will always go down as the most memorable for the blueliner.

The regular season saw Van Mulligen post a career-best 27 points (3 G-24 A) in 50 games with Medicine Hat. And, the good times were only getting started for Van Mulligen and Co.

With six points (3 G-3 A) in postseason appearances, Van Mulligen was a mainstay on Medicine Hat's blueline as the Central Division club captured it's sixth WHL Championship.

The hometown defenceman followed up his trophy-raising season with another productive campaign in 2025-26. Van Mulligen recorded 25 points (6 G-19 A) in 51 regular season appearances, setting a new career high in goals.

In total, Van Mulligen closes out his WHL career with exactly 250 regular season appearances with the Tabbies, collecting 86 points (14 G-72 A).

Giants acquire Koch from Americans in exchange for first-round pick

Fri, 21 Aug 2026 17:03:12 +0000

Vancouver, B.C. – The Vancouver Giants have acquired 2007-born forward Cash Koch and a conditional fifth-round pick in 2029 in exchange for a first-round pick in 2028.

The two Clubs announced the deal Thursday.

"Cash brings an element we are looking for," said Michael Dyck, Head Coach and General Manager of the Giants. "He is highly competitive, plays with an edge, and is hard to play against."

Koch, a 5-foot-11, 196-pound left winger from Calgary, Alta., recorded 16 points (7G-9A) in 41 games with the Ams during the 2025-26 season. Originally selected by the Americans in the second round (24th overall) of the 2022 WHL Prospects Draft, Koch enjoyed a career campaign in 2023-24, tallying 23 points (10G-13A) in 68 games. Over the course of 175 career WHL regular season contests, the veteran forward has logged 58 points (29G-29A) and 253 minutes in penalties.

The Giants are set to open training camp with rookie registration Monday, August 24, and rookie scrimmages beginning Tuesday, August 25, at the Ladner Leisure Centre. Main camp scrimmages begin Friday, August 28, at Ladner Leisure Centre.